Modafinil

Description: Modafinil as a treatment for fatigue

Fatigue is common in ALS and is often reported to be one of the most disabling secondary symptoms of the diagnosis. The New York State Psychiatric Institute and the Eleanor and Lou Gehrig MDA/ALS Research Center are now recruiting for a clinical trial of Modafinil (Provigil) for the treatment of fatigue in ALS. Modafinil is an FDA approved medication to improve wakefulness in patients with excessive daytime sleepiness associated with narcolepsy. It is now being studied for it’s effects on fatigue in other conditions including ALS.

At study completion, the investigators hope to have a better understanding of tolerability and side effects of Modafinil as well as get a preliminary sense of efficacy. Our research, and future patients with ALS, will benefit from your participation.

For more information on the trial, please contact:

Judith Rabkin, Ph.D: jgr1@columbia.edu or 212-543-5762
Martin McElhiney, Ph.D: mcelhin@pi.cpmc.columbia.edu or 212-543-5331